George Jones Majolica Game Pie Dish Tureen With Quail and Rabbits, Circa 1875

Details

Description

George Jones Majolica Quail Game Pie Dish Tureen with Rabbits, c. 1875 — Rare Pattern #3416

A rare and exceptional … Read more George Jones Majolica Quail Game Pie Dish Tureen with Rabbits, c. 1875 — Rare Pattern #3416

A rare and exceptional example of 19th-century English majolica, this George Jones Majolica Game Pie Dish and Cover, dating to circa 1875, exemplifies the celebrated naturalistic style of the Victorian era. Designed to serve traditional English game pies, the tureen functions both as a sculptural work of art and a highly collectible piece of historical tableware.

The lid is exquisitely modeled with a full-bodied quail nesting among tall grasses, forming a dramatic and sculptural finial. The oval base is richly molded in high relief with rabbits nestled amid lush ferns, grasses, oak leaves, and yellow acorns, all set against a vivid turquoise-blue ground. Simulated looped twig handles adorned with oak motifs enhance its woodland-inspired aesthetic and showcase the exceptional craftsmanship characteristic of George Jones’s majolica wares.

Key Features:
Maker: George Jones, England
Date: Design registered June 27, 1875; produced c. 1877

Marks:
Impressed GJ monogram
British Registry Lozenge for June 27, 1875
Date code "C" for 1877
Painted pattern number 3416
Dimensions: 7.25" H x 13.5" W x 8.5" D
Design Elements: Relief-molded rabbits, oak leaves with acorns, and a fully sculpted quail finial
Glaze Colors: Rich turquoise, mossy greens, and earthenware browns
Condition: Professionally restored visible cracks to both lid and base with metal staples; no liner present.

Documentation and Rarity:
This specific pattern (#3416) is cataloged in the George Jones Majolica Pattern Numbers Books housed at the Wedgwood Archive, and is also referenced in Victoria Bergesen’s definitive guide Majolica: British, Continental and American Wares, 1851–1915. It is listed in the Karmeson Library of the Majolica International Society (ID 2783, #KL0004736) with a designation of "Very Rare."

Summary:
With its vivid naturalistic imagery and sculptural detail, this George Jones game pie dish stands as a superb representation of English majolica at its finest. Pieces of this caliber—especially those with rare forms, registered designs, and such high-quality glazing—are increasingly sought after by collectors and institutions worldwide.

Condition:
The lid and base of the game dish have been professionally repaired using traditional metal staples, applied to the underside of the cover lid, the inside and outside of the bottom base, and the side of the tureen dish under one of the side handles. These restorations were done to stabilize visible cracks and reinforce the structure, making the piece sound and display-ready. There is one small noted chip on the underside of the cover lid's edge, and minor losses are consistent with typical wear and tear found on antique or vintage ceramic items. See less